Craigslist postings reveal a sea of solitary Vancouverites on Christmas

An ad from Craiglist

Photograph by: Screengrab
, Craigslist

“Are you spending Christmas alone? I am....”

That is the heading of one of hundreds of recent Craigslist “personals” postings, anonymous messages into Vancouver’s digital ether. Some Christmas-themed postings cry out for human contact. Others trumpet tidings of comfort, joy and laid back vibes. Still others betray purely sexual motives.

But all seem to speak to a genuine need for human connections felt all the more keenly during the holiday season.

“I would love to meet a non-judgemental (sic) person who also will be alone at Christmas,” the posting reads. “I'm 29, Caucasian and live on the west side… In no rush to meet but would be happy to exchange pics. I'm Thomas.”

Thomas’s posting, which includes a picture of him on a couch bear-hugging two smiling toddlers, accords with most holiday-related Craigslist messages under the “strictly platonic” banner – the majority are posted by men – which try to present a relaxed, non-threatening profile that encourages companionship – not eroticism.

“Hey there, no need to be bummed if you are flying solo kinda gal this Christmas,” reads one, titled “1st solo Christmas? Lets hang out.” “I would like someone to hang with…I'm a young middle aged guy, very laid back, fun and off the wall.”

The posting, like several others, also plays up the fears and insecurities of potential respondents: “Do not let the walls close in on you watching tv and eating Oreos. That's crazy making and terrible for your hips anyway. Let's connect.”

One posting titled “Xmas downtime” seeks “anyone else that is just chilling out and laying low this christmas” and “catching up on some music and classic xmas movies.”

Another, labelled “Alone for Christmas?” from a 54-year-old Langley resident, says: “It would be nice to meet a local gal who is still not committed for Christmas…I am new to the area, have a good job and simply just haven't met very many people here.”

The companion-searching doesn’t stop at Christmas Day. “Looking for someone to spend NY's (New Year’s) with,” is the title of a “strictly platonic” posting from Dec. 23.

“Just got out of long term relationship and don't have much friends here,” reads the message from a self-described 33-year-old blonde woman. “Drop me a line with a pic and I'll send mine in return. Cheers!!”

“Christmas Eve Drink?” posted by a “35-year-old professional” male from Vancouver’s west side, states that he “just want(s) to meet someone new to share some good conversation/stories over a few beverages this evening....I figure it is better than being alone.”

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